Thanksgiving Scripture - Nov 28

Introduction...

Psalm 126:1-6 Delivered from Exile to Exultation
（Memorization Scripture: vv. 4-6）
1 When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion,
We were like those who dream.
2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
And our tongue with singing.
Then they said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us,
And we are glad.

4 Bring back our captivity, O Lord,
As the streams in the South.
5 Those who sow in tears
Shall reap in joy.
6 He who continually goes forth weeping,
Bearing seed for sowing,
Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing,
Bringing his sheaves with him.



Psalm-shaped thankers of God are people that recognize who we are and humbly, rightly respond to the stunning grace of God. Your thanksgiving will only be as deep and as wide as the distance you recognize existed between who you were before Christ delivered you and who you are today because the Lord has done great things for us.

This psalm of ascent recognizes that it was God’s grace alone (and not merely Cyrus’ political policy) which brought Israel home from Babylonian exile in the sixth century BC (see Ezra, Nehemiah). The rejoicing pours forth not only for physical homecoming but that God’s wonderful and life-giving covenantal presence is back with His people. Like Israel’s dry south (Negeb) which would flood after a rainstorm, so too will the restored people be overflowing in praise, laughter, and hope for the Lord has done great things for us.

Let us together this day thank God who in Christ Jesus brought us out of exile into His very presence that we might abide, be filled, and rejoice! (KA)